*Mary J. Blige has been an inspiration to many fans for her perseverance in the game and her soulful pipes. But when it comes to the person who has been her biggest source of inspiration, the Queen of Hip Hop Soul points to one person, former first lady of the United States, Michelle Obama.
“The strength this woman has is so amazing because it takes a lot of strength to do what she did,” Blige said in a behind-the-scenes clip for the Billboard Women in Music shoot. “It takes a lot of courage, it takes a lot of confidence to be first lady, to be an African-American woman in that spot.”
Blige will receive the prestigious Icon award at the 2017 Billboard Women In Music event, joining 2016 winner Celine Dion. Kehlani will take home the “Rule Breaker” award while other honorees, Camila Cabello and Kelly Clarkson will be awarded the “Breakthrough Artist” and “Powerhouse” award, respectively. Ciara will serve as host.
The 2017 Billboard Women In Music pre-show and live event will be live streamed on Twitter on Thursday starting at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Watch Mary J. Blige praise Michelle Obama in the video below.
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